Geophysical Concepts, Applications and Limitations

Page
3

2 Classification of geothermal systems

Temperature distribution with depth at different locations and classification of

geothermal systems in relation of their depths

Slide 18

2. Classification of geothermal systems

Use of geothermal energy from surficial, hydrothermal and deep petrothermal reservoirs

Slide 19

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

Classification of geothermal reservoirs in relation to the temperature oC

Slide 20

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.1 High enthalpy reservoirs

Characterization of high enthalpy-systems

Mostly in regions with vulkanic activity

Use for generation of electricity (flash-method)

and of process heat

Temperature range: 90 – 300°C

Depending on pressure reservoirs have more

steam or water

Steam is reinjected

 no negativ environmental impact

 higher productivity

Slide 21

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.1 High enthalpy reservoirs

Slide 22

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.1 High enthalpy reservoirs / World map

http://www.geothermal-energy.org/105,interactive_map.html

http://www.geothermie.de/aktuelles/geothermie-in-zahlen/weltweit.html

Slide 23

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.1 High enthalpy reservoirs/ Examples

Laradello geothermal

power plant

The Geysers geothermal field,

California

http://geothermal.marin.org/GEOpresentation/sld036.htm

Slide 24

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.2 Low enthalpy reservoirs

2.1.2.1 Hydrothermal systems

http://www.unendlich-viel-energie.de/uploads/media/Hydrothermale_Geothermie.pdf

Thermal power extraction

Ptherm= ρ cp Qflow ΔT

ρ = density of water

cp = specific heat

Qflow = flow rate

ΔT = Thot-Tcold

Slide 25

2. Classification of geothermal systems

2.1 Deep geothermal energy reservoirs

2.1.2 Low enthalpy reservoirs